To successfully navigate the world of watercraft, you need more than just a boat and trailer; you also need a set of accessories that enhance safety, convenience, and efficiency. This article provides a list of the best boat trailer accessories, detailing their purposes and the significance of having them for a smooth boating experience.
Flat tyres can ruin any journey. A spare tyre is an essential boat trailer accessory. In addition, a tyre carrier provides a safe and accessible location for the spare tyre, keeping it off the ground and away from potential damage.
A trailer lift is used to raise and lower the trailer to facilitate coupling and decoupling from the towing vehicle. It is especially useful for loading and unloading the watercraft. Consider purchasing a crane with a sufficient weight capacity for your trailer and a swivel design for convenience.
A winch and strap are used to lift the boat onto the trailer and secure it during transport. The strap is the connection between the watercraft and the winch. Choose a durable, corrosion-resistant strap and a high-quality winch for maximal strength and longevity.
Trailer Lights: Trailer lights, such as rear, brake, turn and side marker lights, are essential for transit safety. They make your caravan visible to other motorists, especially in low-light or foggy conditions. Due to their luminosity, durability, and energy efficiency, LED lighting is a popular option.
Guide-Ons: Guide-Ons are helpful tools for loading and unloading your boat, particularly in windy or strong current conditions. They aid in the proper alignment of your watercraft on the trailer and reduce the risk of damage.
Straps for Securing the Boat to the Trailer: Straps for securing the boat to the trailer prevent it from moving or jostling during transport. Because of their simplicity of use and high tensioning capacity, ratchet tie-downs are frequently preferred.
Locks for trailers are necessary for security, preventing theft of the trailer or watercraft. They can be used to secure both the coupler and the wheels. Choose a weatherproof lock that is resistant to picking and tampering.
Bunk carpets safeguard your boat’s hull from scratches caused by loading and unloading. They offer a smooth surface for the boat to glide on and off of, and they are resistant to water, mildew, and ultraviolet damage.
Bearing protectors prevent dirt, water, and debris from penetrating your wheel bearings and causing damage. In addition, they assist in maintaining the grease levels in the bearings, thereby minimising friction and extending their lifespan.
Keel Rollers and Bow Stops: Keel rollers support the keel of your boat, making loading and offloading simpler. Bow stops help maintain the boat’s position during transport and positioning during filling.
Fenders protect your boat and trailer from road debris, prevent water runoff and provide a step for boarding the boat when it is on a trailer. These boat trailer accessories should be resilient and UV- and impact-resistant.
The hitch ball attaches to the hitch of the towing vehicle and provides a pivot point for the trailer. It must have a sufficient rating to support your trailer’s gross weight.
Safety Chains: Safety chains provide a secondary connection between the trailer and the tow vehicle, preventing the trailer from detaching completely in the event that the primary anchor fails.
In conclusion, a well-equipped boat trailer is an investment in safety, convenience, and peace of mind, as well as a vessel to convey your boat. The proper accessories can extend the life of your trailer, make loading and unloading your boat easier, and assure a safer trip on the road. Select high-quality, long-lasting accessories that can withstand the severe marine environment, and always follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions. Happy boating!